Rangers are facing the monumental task of replacing James Tavernier this summer after he ended his 11-year stint in Glasgow.
Tavernier’s departure after 11 years of magnificent service has left a massive, daunting void at right-back, with the Light Blues now working to address that issue.
As the board assesses elite options, including Bryan Reynolds, to fill those boots, the Daily Record recently noted that Rangers may be keeping tabs on Takehiro Tomiyasu.
The versatile defender is set to become a lucrative free agent when his short-term contract with Ajax expires this month, thus leaving the door open for a move to Govan.
Tomiyasu became a topic of discussion at Ibrox after his appearance in Japan’s 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener.
However, his latest international display has officially taken his credentials to a completely different level on the global stage.
A four-man shortlist has been drawn up to replace James Tavernier…
We believe Hampus Skoglund is the ideal candidate. Let us know what you think!
Takehiro Tomiyasu shines in World Cup masterclass
After being reduced to a substitute appearance against the Netherlands, the defender was handed a crucial starting berth as Japan cruised to an emphatic 4-0 victory over Tunisia on Saturday.
Deployed as the right-sided central defender in a dynamic three-man defence, Tomiyasu looked completely flawless throughout the match, helping the Blue Samurai keep a clean sheet.
The 27-year-old marshalled the backline with immense composure, showcasing the exact elite attributes required to succeed under heavy pressure at Ibrox.
The immaculate clean sheet and tactical discipline served as the ultimate audition for any watching Rangers decision-makers.
As evident from Tomiyasu’s heatmap, he largely occupied the space on the touchline near the halfway line, despite being a centre-back, thus showcasing his versatility.
The former Arsenal ace made seven defensive contributions, including four clearances, while no player won more aerial duels than him (3).
If anyone has any doubts about his ability to replace Tavernier, they only need to look at his long ball against Tunisia. He played 10 long balls, of which six found their target.
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Securing a player of his undeniable technical quality on a free transfer represents a total no-brainer for Andrew Cavenagh and Derek McInnes.
Tomiyasu’s ability to seamlessly operate as an orthodox right-back or a centre-back offers incredible tactical flexibility that McInnes will appreciate.
While replacing Tavernier’s attacking output is nearly impossible, Tomiyasu brings a superior level of defensive solidity to the backline.
Rangers must move swiftly to secure his signature before rival European clubs react to his World Cup displays.
